HVAC Controller Voltage Detection for De-Rated Operation Mode

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Solution Overview

Problem

HVAC systems face operational inefficiencies and potential shutdowns due to deviations in input voltage from the expected value, leading to inadequate air flow conditioning.

Innovation Solution

A controller within the HVAC system detects voltage variations and adjusts its operation to a de-rated mode, allowing continued air flow conditioning by modifying the operating parameters of components like compressors to accommodate deviated input voltages.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the HVAC system operates with deviated input voltage, then the system can continue running, but the operation becomes inefficient and may lead to shutdown

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontinuous operationVSAvoidoperational efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller dynamically adjusts operating parameters of HVAC components based on detected input voltage levels. When voltage deviation is detected, the controller modifies compressor speed, fan rotation, and other operational parameters in real-time to maintain efficient operation under varying voltage conditions, preventing both inefficiency and shutdown.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters (such as compressor capacity, fan speed, refrigerant flow rate) in response to detected voltage deviations. By adjusting these parameters according to the actual input voltage, the system maintains optimal efficiency across different voltage conditions while ensuring continuous operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If the HVAC system operates in de-rated mode to accommodate voltage deviations, then continuous operation is maintained, but the conditioning capacity is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontinuous operationVSAvoidair flow conditioning capacity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller implements partial action by operating HVAC components at reduced capacity levels when voltage deviations are detected. Instead of full-rated operation, the system adjusts to a de-rated mode that provides sufficient conditioning capacity for current conditions while maintaining continuous operation, accepting reduced but adequate performance rather than complete shutdown.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts the degree of de-rating based on the magnitude and duration of voltage deviations. The controller continuously monitors voltage conditions and adjusts operating parameters accordingly, allowing the system to maintain the highest possible conditioning capacity under constrained voltage conditions while ensuring uninterrupted operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Device complexity

If the HVAC system uses standard operating parameters, then the system design is simple, but the system cannot adapt to voltage variations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol system complexityVSAvoidvoltage adaptation capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The controller incorporates voltage detection and feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor input voltage levels and automatically adjust operating parameters in response. This feedback loop enables the system to adapt to voltage variations without complex manual intervention or redesign, maintaining simplicity while achieving adaptability through automated control based on real-time voltage conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11768000B2System and method to operate HVAC system during voltage variation event
Publication Date: 2023.09.26 TYCO FIRE & SECURITY GMBH
  • US11768000B2 patent drawing
  • US11768000B2 patent drawing
  • US11768000B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A controller for a heating, ventilation, and/or air conditioning (HVAC) system is configured to detect an input voltage received as a power supply by the HVAC system, determine the input voltage exceeds a threshold value, and identify a voltage variation event based on determining that the input voltage exceeds the threshold value.